Can Higher Doses of Magnesium Thwart Epilepsy?

This new study from researchers in China found that people who eat more magnesium-rich foods may be less likely to have epilepsy, adding to growing evidence that good nutrition can play an important role in brain health. Analyzing health and dietary information from more than 33,000 adults who took part in a survey in the United States, the researchers found that people with higher magnesium intake had a significantly lower prevalence of epilepsy than those consuming less.

The researchers also investigated why magnesium might have this protective effect. Their analysis suggests that about half of the apparent benefit may be linked to magnesium’s ability to support the body’s natural defenses against inflammation. Magnesium is known to help regulate nerve cell activity, and previous research has shown that low magnesium levels can make the brain more vulnerable to seizures. The large size of the new study strengthens its findings and adds to the growing evidence linking magnesium with healthy brain function.

To read about research suggesting that vitamin D and other micronutrients may help reduce the frequency of seizures in epilepsy patients, see this news story on our website.